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Personal
Fullname: William Semple
aka: Billy Semple
Born: 18 April 1886
Died: 4 June 1965
Birthplace: West Maryston
Signed: 14 Oct 1907
Left: Aug 1909 (to Millwall)
Position: Outside-left
Debut: Celtic 0-0 Rangers, Glasgow Cup, 19 Oct 1907
Internationals: Scotland
International Caps: N/A
International Goals: N/A
Biog
An outside-left, William Semple was a coal miner signed by the Bhoys in October 1907 from Baillieston Thistle.
Football was likely an escape, especially in light of personal tragedy as Billy Semple’s brother James, was killed aged just 14 in a coal mining accident in Uddingston on 30th August 1895 (RIP).
He made his debut in the Glasgow Charity Cup final replay with Rangers at Hampden as the Bhoys were hit by a selection crisis due to suspensions and recent transfers. That match finished 0-0 and Billy was dropped for the second replay as more familiar names returned to the fold.
Billy Semple made a total of 8 league competitive appearances for Celtic, netting twice. The bulk of his matches were in season 1907-08, filling in for Davie Hamilton which included his debut league game v Port Glasgow in a 5-0 victory. His two goals came first in a 3-0 victory over Aberdeen at home and a 1-1 draw with Falkirk away, both in the league.
His second goal for Celtic was important as Falkirk were to come second in the league just four points behind Celtic at the final tally, although the league had been just won by this time following a win over Ranger in the previous match, but helped to cement Celtic’s right as champions for the season (the match was the second last of the season).
He was given a single outing in season 1908-09 in the league again covering for Davie Hamilton in a 1-1 draw away to Falkirk.
He played his part therefore in two league title victories in a golden era for Celtic which is much to respect.
He moved south to Millwall in 1909 (where he was to be a firm favourite), and in fairness trying to take the place of Celtic great Davie Hamilton was likely a challenge too far, and not just a difficult challenge for him.
He later served Southport as a player and beyond with a 51 year connection covering many roles at the club.
He passed away in 1965.
Playing Career
| APPEARANCES | LEAGUE | SCOTTISH CUP | LEAGUE CUP | EUROPE | TOTAL |
| 1907-09 | 8 | 0 | n/a | n/a | 8 |
| Goals: | 2 | 0 | – | – | 2 |
Honours with Celtic
Scottish League
Pictures
Billy Semple
Source: Billy Semple – SFC FPA (southportfootballclub.co.uk)
With over 50 years’ continuous service at Haig Avenue, Billy Semple qualifies for the title of Southport‘s most faithfull servant. Spotted in junior football while working in the Lanarkshire coalfield, he joined Celtic as a professional after helping them defeat Rangers in the Glasgow Cup Final.
After 3 1/2 years with Celtic he moved on to Millwall (then a Southern League club) before returning north to join Carlisle, whence he progressed to Haslingden in the Lancashire Combination. He was signed by Southport, making his debut on Good Friday 1912, and was still playing for the club when they were elected to the Football League nine years later. In his Central League days he gained the reputation of being a speedy and crafty winger with an abundance of tricks. He became player-coach of the Reserves in 1923 and they had their most successful season ever as runners-up in the Lancashire Combination whilst winning the Combination Cup.
He graduated to assistant trainer and in 1939 succeeded Jimmy Seddon as first-team trainer. He played an invaluable part in keeping the flag flying during the war years and was responsible for recruiting many well-known guest players.
In 1947 he became groundsman maintaining the rich, verdant appearance of the turf – and Haig Avenue gained the reputation of having the best playing surface outside Wembley. He also did a lot of scouting and acted as gateman until ill-health forced his retirement around Christmas 1963. This pipe-smoking, cloth-capped figure will long be remembered by all those associated with the club.
